Description: These small (approximately 1/16th inch) effective predators are mainly known for their role in the control of pest thrips. They are also adapted for preying on insect eggs, mites, aphids, and other small prey if the opportunity arises. In all stages of life they are active searching predators, but will occasionally feed on plants. Once these bugs have found a meal they insert their needle sharp beak, inject digestive enzymes, then suck up the partially digested insides of their prey. Although small, they can deliver a significant “bite” with their beak if mishandled, but present no real danger.

Identification:Rollover pictures with mouse for tips on how to identify these predators. Adults: Very small (approximately 1/16th inch). The most easily noticed characteristics are the black oval shaped body with a white diamond like shape at the back of the wings, and a light ‘stripe’ across the middle. The small head has protruding eyes and a beak.
Nymphs: Smaller than adults, with tear-drop-shaped orange bodies that lack wings and red eyes.

Value in Pest Management: The insidious flower bug is a common natural control of thrips and other arthropod pests on a number of important crops including most deciduous fruits, corn, cotton, soybeans, alfalfa and grapes. They are widely available commercially (see BIRC online Directory).